CONCERT REVIEW: THE CHOPS AND ONE TIME WEEKEND AT SOUNDCHECK STUDIOS

Joanna Gleason
Jul 7
3 min read

On June 29, 2025, Soundcheck Studios in Pembroke, MA, welcomed The Chops and One Time Weekend. The show started at 8:00 p.m. with The Chops as the opener. With a group of talented musicians such as Seth Gomez – guitar, vocals -, Chris Cellucci – drums -, Matt Glickman – keys – Sal Restuccia – bass -; The Chops provided an energy that was exclusive. They performed to a rowdy crowd of Jam Band lovers who made the venue shake rock and roll.

Led by Seth Gomez, the band takes inspiration from all realms music: from hot jazz to modern pop. The way that brings The Chops to success has been resumed by Seth Gomez, the band’s leader:

“We’re a Psychedelic Rock band inspired by all realms of music. Each member takes their individual inspiration and we come together to make something whole. The band started about 3 years ago and was based out of Boston. The band started during the tail end of the pandemic. At the time we had a residency at a farm in Exeter, New Hampshire called Gilman Farm. At the farm we learned to build a community and play music. We learned to take risks with improvisation. The Farm was the springboard that propelled us into the New England scene and holds a special place in our hearts.”

“The Band was founded by me (Seth) and I wanted to create a unique sounding band that also would take risks with experimental improvisation. We never play the same song the same way and never repeat our setlists. We’re all very inspired by The Grateful Dead, Jimi Hendrix, Miles Davis, Frank Zappa, The Beach boys and so many more artists. We strive to create unique moments of improvisation every show.”

“Our songs all have different feels but whatever we do still has the sound of The Chops. Even if we write a song that might be out of genre when it’s played by all of us it holds true to the band’s sound. We love to travel and play festivals/our local venues. We're looking to tour soon and bring our music outside of New England this spring/summer.”

“To us creating true improvised music shows variability that reflects emotions onto us and the crowds that see us. We want to use those moments that we are truly expressing ourselves to create something new and unique. Our fans are the best fans we can ask for and are dedicated to supporting us. Our fans have coined the name Chops Family which is very suiting. We always take time to spend time with them and interact off the stage.”

THE CHOPS SETLIST

1- Lost

2- Soul

3- Piano Solo

4- Leave the Dark

5- Salutations

6- Drum Solo

7- Space Jam

8- Purple Rain

At 9:30 p.m. One Time Weekend as the headliner hit the stage. The group from Hartford, Connecticut has been making waves in the indie music scene with their unique blend of alternative rock, pop sensibilities, and emotionally charged lyrics. Known for their high-energy performances and engaging stage presence, the band creates an immersive experience that connects with the audience on a deep level. With a growing catalog of studio albums and live releases, OTW has attracted a loyal following of fans in Pembroke.

Known for their electrifying live shows, One Time Weekend delivered an unforgettable high-energy experience during their performance on Sunday. Their music explores themes of love, loss, self-discovery, and the complexities of modern life, resonating with listeners of all ages.

“Every One Time Weekend show is an adventure – no two performances are the same, and no two songs sound alike. It’s rock, it’s experimental, it’s everything in between, and it’s always a ride worth taking,” said the band’s leader for OTW.

“Shred, funk, metal, jam… Take these four ingredients and sauté them in a sauce of songwriting and groove, and you might get something that tastes like OTW.”

One Time Weekend Setlist

1- Soda Pop

2- Watch Me Grow

3- Liquid Love

4- Power Trip (Jam)

5- Oyster Choice

6- Man in a Box (Short Jam)

7- Here To Stay

8- Crypto Joe (Jam)

9- Omelet

10- Cowboy Song (Cavity)

Encore :